The Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics, part of the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Manchester invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate position in the extragalactic and observational cosmology group. The starting date is negotiable but should be between 1st February 2013 and 1st October 2013.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Michael Brown on the development and application of new techniques for performing weak gravitational lensing analyses of deep, wide-field sky surveys using forthcoming optical and radio telescopes.

The University of Manchester operates the UK’s next-generation radio facility, e-MERLIN on behalf of STFC. The Manchester cosmology group is leading SuperCLASS - a novel radio weak lensing survey of supercluster of galaxies to be performed with e-MERLIN. This radio data will be complemented by deep optical observations allowing for joint radio/optical weak lensing analyses. We are looking for a PDRA who is familiar with weak lensing techniques and/or who is experienced in the cosmological analysis of large radio and/or optical datasets. The post-holder will be based at the University of Manchester and will be expected to play a leading role in developing and applying new lensing techniques for analysing optical and radio data. The group is also involved with radio surveys using the MeerKAT telescope and we are playing a leading role in preparations for the Square Kilometre Array. The group is also involved in preparations for weak lensing studies with ESA’s Euclid satellite.

Knowledge and experience of some aspect of cosmological data analysis is essential. You must also hold or be about to obtain a PhD or equivalent in a relevant field. An interest in observational cosmology and the underlying physics driving the accelerating Universe is desirable. You must possess excellent communication skills, and programming skills (e.g. C, Fortan, IDL) are essential.

This position is funded by an ERC Starting Grant (P.I. M. Brown) with associated research funds for travel, computing and other expenses. The initial appointment will be for a period of two years with the possibility of extension. The starting salary will be in the range £29,249 to £35,938 p.a. depending on experience.

Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Michael Brown, Email: [Log in to view email], tel: +44 (0)161 3063913.

For further particulars and to apply for the position, search for job reference EPS-01672 on our website [Log in to view email] by the same deadline.